Travel Guide for Marella Cruises – Magic of Spain Itinerary

Discover the Magic of Spain with Marella Cruises

Spanish Flag

Step aboard Marella’s Magic of Spain itinerary and discover some of the most vibrant ports the Iberian Peninsula has to offer. This seven-night fly-cruise begins and ends in sun-soaked Palma, Majorca, before weaving its way through a mix of Spanish gems and the iconic British outpost of Gibraltar. From sipping sherry in Cádiz to strolling Málaga’s palm-lined boulevards, exploring Moorish fortresses in Almería, and soaking up the Mediterranean spirit of Alicante, each stop offers a different flavour of Spain’s rich heritage and culture.

Ports of call on this voyage include:

• Palma, Majorca (embarkation)

• Gibraltar

• Cádiz (for Seville and Jerez)

• Málaga

• Almería

• Alicante

• Palma, Majorca (disembarkation or changeover for back-to-back cruises)

Note: Occasionally itineraries change, either swapping ports around or replacing with a completely different port altogether. If this happens try to be flexible and not let it spoil your cruise.

This guide takes you through each port day on the Magic of Spain itinerary, with insider tips on what to see and do, where to eat, the best beaches, and how to get from ship to shore. Accessibility advice is also included for each destination. For ship-specific support, Marella Cruises’ dedicated Assisted Travel Team can be reached on 0800 145 6920.

Day 1: Palma, Majorca (Embarkation)

Cathedral of Santa Maria (La Seu)

Overview

Port: Palma de Mallorca

Details: Embarkation usually happens in the evening, with departure around 22:00  .

What to See & Do:

• Explore the Cathedral of Santa Maria (La Seu) and the stunning Gothic architecture.

• Visit Bellver Castle for panoramic views over the bay.

• Wander through the historic old town or enjoy some tapas in the Plaza Mayor.

• Stroll along the marina and soak in the Mediterranean sunset.

Map of Palma

 

Accessibility Tips: Palma is generally well-equipped with accessible public transport and easily navigable extra-wide sidewalks.

Port Area

Several ships dock in Palma every day.  There are four cruise terminals serving cruise ships docked at the Paraires and Poniente quays and are connected by a network of covered walkways.

The terminals offer amenities like snack bars, cafeterias, offices, toilets, post offices, police stations, telephone kiosks, ATMs, currency exchanges, and luggage storage (in case you arrive early), with buses and taxis readily available outside the terminals.

Outside the port there is a marina-front boulevard and coastal path for walking into Palma city centre (30-40 minute walk).

Depending which berth you dock at there might be quite a walk across a walkway to reach the exit.  When returning, look carefully for the signs for your ship so you don’t get lost and end up in the wrong place.

Note: On my two most recent visits in 2024/2025 there has been a lot of construction work around the port entrance.

Language: Spanish

Currency: Euro

Distance to Town: The port is about a 30-40 minute walk from Palma’s city centre. You can also take a bus or taxi.

Accessibility

• Palma de Mallorca cruise port offers good accessibility, with terminals adapted for wheelchair users, featuring ramps, Lifts, and accessible toilets, and the city centre is reachable by a flat, accessible route along the marina.

• The terminals are accessible via a long marina-front boulevard, making it convenient for visitors to transition from their cruise ship to the vibrant streets of Palma. 

• The walk along the waterfront is scenic and takes about 30-45 minutes to reach the city centre. Whilst some buses may be accessible this isn’t guaranteed.  It is possible to order a wheelchair-accessible taxi.

• Palma offers barrier-free routes, allowing wheelchair users to explore major attractions comfortably, however some areas may have cobblestones, which could pose challenges; caution is advised.

Things to Do:

• Palma Cathedral (La Seu): Visit this stunning Gothic cathedral, one of the most famous landmarks in Palma. It’s just a 30-minute walk from the port. Or catch a bus (if you head through the Porto Pi shopping centre you can pick up bus 104 for 2 euros cash only).

• Royal Palace of La Almudaina: A short walk from the cathedral, this historical palace offers a glimpse into Mallorca’s royal history and has fabulous gardens.

• Take a scenic drive to Bellver Castle for panoramic views.

• Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets filled with quaint shops, cafes, and historical buildings. Stop at Plaza Mayor and the Arab Baths (you will need to take the bus or grab a taxi)

Getting Around:

Taxis: Readily available at the cruise terminal; fares vary depending on the distance.

Buses: Local EMT Palma buses provide services to several beaches; schedules and routes can be checked in advance. Route 1 (Portopí - Sindicat) connects the port area with the city centre as does route 104 from the other side of Portopi..

Places to Eat

There are so many to choose from but here are two examples:

Bar Españya: Described as the best tapas bar in Palma. A popular spot for tapas, located in the city centre.

Forn de Sant Joan: A historic, refined eatery in the heart of Palma, offering Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.

Beach Day

Palma de Mallorca offers several beautiful beaches within close proximity to the cruise port. Here are some top options to consider:

Cala Major

Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 4 kilometres.

Description: A popular beach featuring fine white sand and clear waters, sheltered from wind and waves.

Access: A short taxi ride, bus 104 or a 2.6-kilometre walk from the port.

Note: Can become crowded during peak seasons.

Illetas Beach

Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 6 kilometres.

Description: A picturesque beach known for its clear turquoise waters and upscale beach clubs.

Access: Reachable by taxi or local bus services.

Palma Nova Beach

Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 12 kilometres.

Description: Offers three wide beaches with fine sand and numerous bars and restaurants along the promenade.

Access: A taxi ride costing around €20.

Playa de Palma (El Arenal)

Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 13 kilometres.

Description: A long stretch of sandy beach lined with a variety of eateries and shops.

Access: Accessible via taxi or local bus services.

Cala Comtessa

Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 9 kilometres.

Description: A small, scenic beach surrounded by pine trees, offering calm waters ideal for swimming.

Access: Best reached by taxi.

Before planning your beach visit, it’s advisable to check the latest local guidelines and beach conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Day 2: At Sea

Relaxing Sea Day - Ocean Views

A full day to unwind and explore onboard

Ship Highlights:

• Marella Voyager — the newest in the fleet, launched in 1997 and refitted in 2023   .

• Amenities include 13 decks, approx. 952 cabins, indoor cinema, mini-golf, a show lounge, pool and whirlpools, plus 18 restaurants and 10 bars   .

What to Do:

• Relax by the pool or whirlpool.

• Catch a movie at the indoor cinema.

• Play mini golf with sea views.

• Enjoy shows, live performances, or browse the diverse dining venues.

See my related article: What to Do on a Sea Day

Day 3: Gibraltar

Aerial view of Gibraltar

Arrive: ~09:00

Depart: ~22:00 

Perched at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar is a fascinating blend of British and Mediterranean influences, with its red post boxes, pubs, and familiar shops set against a backdrop of palm trees and Spanish sunshine. Dominated by the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, the territory offers a mix of history, wildlife, and panoramic views stretching as far as Africa on a clear day. Compact and easy to explore on foot, Gibraltar makes for a unique cruise stop where you can enjoy duty-free shopping, encounters with the famous Barbary macaques, and a stroll through centuries of military history.

What to See & Do:

• The Rock of Gibraltar: ride the cable car for sweeping views, or hike if you’re up for it.

• St. Michael’s Cave and WWII tunnels offer fascinating insights into the region’s defense history  .

• Visit the famous Barbary Apes—but beware, they’re notorious for grabbing cameras and snacks  .

• Browse duty-free shops or stop in a British-style pub for a pint.

Map of Gibralter

Use controls to zoom in and out.

 

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at the Gibraltar Cruise Terminal, located at North Mole (also known as the Western Arm). The terminal is about 1.5 kilometres from the city centre, making it a manageable walk for most visitors. The modern terminal building provides essential facilities including tourist information, a duty-free shop, restrooms, ATMs, and Wi-Fi. Outside the terminal, taxis and shuttle buses wait to take passengers into town.

Language: English (with Spanish also widely spoken)

Currency: Gibraltar Pound (interchangeable with Sterling); Euros accepted in many places but change is usually given in GBP

Distance to Town: About 1.5 km. You can walk (15–20 minutes), take a taxi (€7–€10 to town centre), or use the shuttle bus service (around €5 return).

Accessibility

• The cruise terminal is step-free, with ramps and accessible restrooms.

• The walk to town is flat but involves some road crossings; pavements are generally well-maintained.

• Many attractions, including the cable car to the Upper Rock, are only partially accessible. Wheelchair-accessible taxis are available but limited in number.

• Casemates Square and Main Street are pedestrianised with mostly flat surfaces, though some side streets are cobbled.

Things to Do

Local highlights:

• Main Street & Casemates Square: Duty-free shopping, cafés, and pubs in the heart of town, including good old Marks & Spencer.

• Gibraltar Museum: Small but fascinating insight into the Rock’s history, including WWII tunnels. Entry around £5.

• St Michael’s Cave: An illuminated limestone cave often used for concerts. Admission £18 (includes Upper Rock Nature Reserve ticket).

Further afield (via cable car/taxi):

Upper Rock Nature Reserve: Home to the famous Barbary macaques

• Upper Rock Nature Reserve: Home to the famous Barbary macaques, WWII tunnels, and panoramic views across to Africa. Cable car ride costs around £19 return, or taxis offer Rock tours for about £25–30 per person.

• Europa Point: The southernmost tip of Gibraltar, with a lighthouse, mosque, and stunning sea views. Taxi ride €10–15.

Getting Around

• On foot: Town centre is within a 15–20 minute walk.

• Taxis: Available at the terminal; many drivers offer “Rock Tours” covering main highlights in 1.5–2 hours.

• Public bus: Local buses run from the cruise port entrance into town for €1.50 per journey.

• Cable car: Connects the city to the top of the Rock in six minutes.

Places to Eat

• The Clipper: A traditional British-style pub near Casemates Square with hearty portions and local ales.

• Roy’s Cod Plaice: Famous fish and chips spot right on Casemates Square.

• The Lounge Gastro Bar: On Queensway Quay Marina, offering Mediterranean fusion with sea views.

Best Beaches

Eastern Beach
Distance: 2 km north of the cruise terminal (10 min taxi).

Description: Gibraltar’s largest sandy beach, backed by the Rock. Calm waters, lifeguards, cafés.

Catalan Bay
Distance: 3 km from port (15 min taxi).

Description: A colourful fishing village with a sandy cove and seafood restaurants. Popular with locals.

Sandy Bay
Distance: 3.5 km from port (15–20 min taxi).

Description: Small but sheltered beach, with imported golden sand and clear water.

Shopping

• Main Street: Duty-free shopping hub with British high street names, perfume, jewellery, and liquor stores.

• Casemates Square: Souvenir shops and boutiques selling Gibraltar-branded items.

• ICC Mall: Small shopping centre with a supermarket, pharmacy, and fashion outlets.

Day 4: Cádiz (for Seville and Jerez), Spain

Cadiz, one of Europe’s oldest cities

Arrive: ~08:00

Depart: ~17:00 

One of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Cádiz is a vibrant port surrounded almost entirely by water, with over 3,000 years of history. Its maze of narrow streets opens up to sunlit plazas, baroque churches, and a stunning seafront promenade. From here, many travellers head inland to explore Seville’s grand cathedral and Alcázar, or to Jerez for sherry tastings and flamenco. Yet Cádiz itself has a lively local charm, with tapas bars, sandy beaches, and watchtowers that once guided merchants home from the New World.

What to See & Do:

• Cádiz is one of Europe’s oldest cities, beautifully set on a peninsula.

• Discover the neoclassical Town Hall, Cathedral with its golden dome, and waterside views at Playa de la Caleta  .

• Optionally, take a drive to Jerez de la Frontera for sherry tastings and flamenco culture.

Map of Cadiz

 

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at the Port of Cádiz, just a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town. The small terminal offers restrooms, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, and tourist information. Taxis line up outside, and the train station is 10 minutes away on foot for day trips. Unlike many ports, you can walk directly into the city without shuttles.

Language: Spanish

Currency: Euro

Distance to Town: Directly beside Old Town (5 mins on foot).

Accessibility

• Step-free terminal with ramps and accessible restrooms.

• Cádiz is flat and compact, but some cobbled lanes can be uneven.

• Public buses are generally accessible; adapted taxis available.

• Major attractions like Cádiz Cathedral are accessible.

Things to Do

In Cádiz:

• Cádiz Cathedral: Golden-domed landmark (€7).

• Tavira Tower & Camera Obscura: Panoramic views (€7).

• Parque Genovés: Botanic gardens, free entry.

• Mercado Central: Bustling food market.

Day trips:

Take a trip to Seville - the hottest city in Europe

• Seville (1h30 by train/coach): Alcázar, Cathedral & Giralda, Santa Cruz quarter.

• Jerez (45 min by train): Sherry bodegas (€15–20 tours) and equestrian school (€30 shows).

Getting Around

• On foot: Best way to explore Cádiz.

• Taxi: Short rides €5–10, Jerez €60–70 return.

• Train: 10 min walk to station, regular Seville & Jerez trains.

• Hop-on Bus: Covers Cádiz highlights (€20).

Places to Eat

• Casa Manteca: Rustic tapas and sherry.

• El Faro de Cádiz: Renowned seafood restaurant.

• Freiduria Las Flores: Famous fried fish in Plaza de las Flores.

Beach Day

• Playa de la Caleta (1 km): Small local favourite with historic setting.

• Playa de la Victoria (3 km): Long sandy beach with promenade, cafés, and loungers.

• Playa Santa María del Mar (2 km): Wide beach with surf and facilities.

Shopping

• Calle Columela: Main shopping street.

• Mercado Central: Local produce and foodie souvenirs.

• Boutiques: Fans, ceramics, and jewellery.

Day 5: Málaga, Spain

Malaga - The Gateway to the Costa del Sol

Arrive: ~08:00 ·

Depart: Between ~18:00–19:00

As the gateway to Spain’s Costa del Sol, Málaga combines the feel of a beach resort with the depth of a historic city. Birthplace of Pablo Picasso, it offers world-class art galleries alongside the Alcazaba fortress, Roman amphitheatre, and a soaring cathedral nicknamed “La Manquita.” The palm-lined harbourfront is perfect for strolling, with shops and restaurants spilling onto lively plazas. Whether you’re after golden sands, Andalusian culture, or simply a leisurely glass of wine, Málaga is one of Spain’s most inviting cruise calls.

What to See & Do:

Take an excursion to Mijas

• Visit the Alcazaba fortress and Gibralfaro Castle for breathtaking views over Malaga.

• Wander through the historic center, including the Picasso Museum and Cathedral.

• Marella Shore Excursion Options:

• Mijas – a charming white-washed village with scenic views and donkey-taxis  .

• Álora wine tasting – picturesque valley, local wine, olives, cheese  .

• Marbella & Puerto Banús – luxury yachts, designer shops, and glamorous ambience .

Map of Malaga

 

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at the Port of Málaga, located at Muelle de Levante, about 1.5 kilometres from the historic city centre. A pleasant palm-lined promenade called Palmeral de las Sorpresas connects the cruise terminal with the city, making it one of the most walkable ports in Spain. The modern terminal facilities include ATMs, tourist information desks, restrooms, Wi-Fi, duty-free shopping, and taxi and shuttle services right outside.

For those who prefer not to walk, a dedicated port shuttle bus runs between the terminal and Plaza de la Marina in the city centre for a small fee (around €4 return).

Language: Spanish

Currency: Euro (€)

Distance to Town: Approx. 1.5 km – 20 minutes on foot, 5 minutes by taxi (€8–10), or via port shuttle bus (~€4 return).

Accessibility

• The cruise terminal is fully accessible, with ramps, lifts, wide gangways, and adapted restrooms.

• The port shuttle bus is wheelchair accessible, offering a direct route into the city centre.

• Málaga’s old town has many pedestrianised areas with mostly flat, paved streets, although some cobblestones may pose minor challenges.

• Major attractions such as the Picasso Museum, Carmen Thyssen Museum, and Málaga Cathedral are accessible, with lifts and adapted entrances.

• The city’s public buses are fitted with ramps and priority seating, and accessible taxis can be arranged at the terminal.

Things to Do

Local Highlights

• Alcazaba of Málaga: This Moorish fortress-palace, dating back to the 11th century, is one of the city’s top sights. Entry ~€3.50. A lift offers easier access.

• Málaga Cathedral (“La Manquita”): Renowned for its unfinished second tower, the cathedral is an architectural masterpiece. Entry ~€6.

• Picasso Museum: Dedicated to Málaga’s most famous son, featuring over 200 works. Entry ~€9.

• Roman Theatre: Located at the foot of the Alcazaba, this 1st-century BC amphitheatre is free to enter.

• Calle Larios: The city’s elegant shopping street, perfect for strolling and boutique browsing.

Further Afield

Take a trip to visit Ronda

• Granada & the Alhambra: A full-day trip (about 90 minutes by coach). Excursions usually start at ~€60–80.

• Ronda: Famous for its dramatic gorge and historic bridge, about 1.5 hours by road. Tours start around €55.

• Caminito del Rey: Once the world’s most dangerous walkway, now a safe (but thrilling) cliffside trail. Entry ~€10; guided excursions from Málaga ~€45.

Getting Around

• Walking: The city centre is within easy walking distance via the Palmeral promenade.

• Shuttle Bus: Port shuttle to Plaza de la Marina (~€4 return).

• Taxis: Readily available outside the terminal, with set fares to key areas (city centre ~€8–10).

• Public Buses: EMT bus services connect across the city. Tickets cost ~€1.40 per journey.

Places to Eat

• El Pimpi (elpimpi.com) – Iconic Málaga tapas bar near the Alcazaba, serving local wines and Andalusian favourites.

• Los Mellizos Málaga (grupolasmellizos.com) – Popular for fresh seafood and paella in the old town.

• Casa Lola (casalola.es) – Known for authentic tapas, busy atmosphere, and vermouth on tap.

Best Beaches

• La Malagueta (1 km from port) – The city’s main beach, lined with chiringuitos (beach bars). Easy to reach on foot in about 15–20 minutes. Facilities include sunbeds, showers, and lifeguards.

• Pedregalejo (5 km east) – A charming fishing district with a promenade and small coves, accessible by taxi (~€10) or bus (No. 11, €1.40).

• Playa de la Misericordia (4 km west) – A wide, less touristy beach, about 10 minutes by taxi (€12) or EMT Bus 16.

Shopping

Málaga offers a mix of high-street and boutique shopping:

• Calle Larios – The city’s premier shopping avenue, with international brands and designer stores.

• Atarazanas Market – A lively indoor market with fresh produce, tapas stalls, and Andalusian delicacies.

• Muelle Uno – A modern open-air shopping and dining complex along the waterfront, just a short walk from the port.

Day 6: Almería, Spain

Almeria, Spain

Arrive: ~08:00

Depart: ~16:00 

Introduction

Tucked into the sun-baked corner of Andalucía, Almería is a city of contrasts — where Moorish fortresses overlook golden beaches and a modern seafront sits alongside winding old town streets. Famous for its impressive Alcazaba, Europe’s second-largest Moorish fortress, and for the dramatic desert landscapes just inland, Almería offers both cultural highlights and cinematic scenery (many “Spaghetti Westerns” were filmed here). Compact and easy to explore, the port makes a great gateway to this underrated corner of Spain.

What to See & Do:

• Explore the Alcazaba fortress and the historic old town.

• Shop or wander through art galleries in the modern part of the city.

• Consider a day trip to the Alhambra in Granada or to Cabo de Gata Natural Park for volcanic landscapes and secluded beaches – perfect for nature lovers.

 

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at Puerto de Almería, located around 1.5 kilometres from the city centre. The port area itself is functional but offers a terminal with information desks, Wi-Fi, restrooms, and taxi services. Shuttle buses (when provided) drop passengers near Plaza de las Velas in the heart of the city.

Language: Spanish

Currency: Euro (€)

Distance to Town: Approx. 1.5 km – 20 minutes on foot, 5 minutes by taxi (~€8), or port shuttle if running (~€3–4 return).

Accessibility

• The terminal is accessible with ramps and adapted restrooms.

• Pavements in the old town can be uneven, but main attractions such as the Alcazaba and Cathedral are accessible via designated entrances.

• Taxis with wheelchair access can be booked in advance.

• Beaches like Playa del Zapillo feature ramps and accessible pathways.

Things to Do

Alcazaba of Almería

Local Highlights

• Alcazaba of Almería: An enormous Moorish fortress with gardens and panoramic views. Entry ~€2, free on Sundays.

• Almería Cathedral: A fortified Gothic-Renaissance cathedral built to withstand pirate attacks. Entry ~€5.

• Museum of Almería: Displays archaeological finds from prehistoric to Roman times. Free entry.

• Cable Inglés: A striking 19th-century iron pier, once used for mineral loading, now a photogenic landmark.

Further Afield

• Mini Hollywood (Tabernas Desert, ~30 minutes by road) – A Wild West theme park built on original film sets. Entry ~€23.

• Cabo de Gata Natural Park (~40 minutes by road) – Rugged volcanic coastline with unspoilt beaches and dramatic cliffs. Excursions start from ~€50.

Getting Around

• Walking: City centre within 20 minutes.

• Taxis: Available at port (~€8 to city centre).

• Public Bus: Urban buses connect across Almería, single tickets ~€1.20.

Places to Eat

• Casa Puga – Historic tapas bar known for seafood and traditional Andalusian dishes.

• La Mala (lamala.es) – A lively seafront spot offering modern tapas and cocktails.

• El Quinto Toro – Popular for local tapas and Iberian ham.

Best Beaches

• Playa del Zapillo (2 km) – The city’s main beach, easy to reach by taxi (~€10) or bus No. 11. Wide sands with sunbeds and beach bars.

• Cabo de Gata Beaches (30–40 minutes by road) – Stunning unspoilt beaches such as Playa de los Genoveses and Playa de Mónsul.

Shopping

• Paseo de Almería – Main shopping street with high-street brands and local boutiques.

• Central Market – A traditional food market with local produce, olives, and cheeses.

• Calle de las Tiendas – Great for independent stores and souvenirs.

Day 7: Alicante, Spain

Alicante, Spain. Image: Stock Image, Unsplash

Arrive: ~09:00 ·

Depart: ~16:00  .

Alicante is a vibrant Costa Blanca city where palm-fringed boulevards meet a sandy urban beach and a striking castle rises above the skyline. Known for its lively tapas culture, stylish marina, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, Alicante makes for a fantastic cruise stop whether you want to explore history, enjoy the beach, or simply wander the old quarter with an ice cream in hand.

Map of Alicante

 

Port Area

Cruise ships dock at Muelle de Poniente, about 1 kilometre from the city centre and marina. The modern terminal offers Wi-Fi, information desks, shops, and easy access to taxis. A shuttle bus usually operates from the terminal to the Explanada de España promenade, just steps from the old town.

Language: Spanish

Currency: Euro (€)

Distance to Town: Approx. 1 km – 15–20 minutes on foot, 5 minutes by taxi (~€8), or shuttle bus (~€3–4 return).

Accessibility

• Terminal and shuttle buses are fully accessible.

• The Explanada de España promenade is wide and flat, ideal for wheelchairs.

• The old town has cobbled streets but main attractions like the Archaeological Museum (MARQ) and Santa Bárbara Castle (lift access) are wheelchair friendly.

• Accessible taxis available on request at the port.

Things to Do

View from Santa Bárbara Castle, Alicante

Local Highlights

• Santa Bárbara Castle: Perched on Mount Benacantil, this fortress offers sweeping views over Alicante. Free entry; a lift from Postiguet Beach provides easy access.

• Explanada de España: Iconic palm-lined promenade with colourful mosaic tiles, cafes, and street performers.

• Alicante Cathedral (San Nicolás): A 17th-century Baroque cathedral with peaceful cloisters.

• MARQ Museum: Award-winning archaeology museum showcasing Alicante’s rich history. Entry ~€3.

Further Afield

• Guadalest (~1 hour) – A stunning mountaintop village, often visited with the Algar Waterfalls. Excursions ~€40–50.

• Tabarca Island (~1 hour by boat) – A small, idyllic island known for clear waters, seafood, and snorkelling. Ferries ~€20 return.

• Benidorm (~40 minutes by road) – A lively resort city with theme parks and beaches.

Getting Around

• Walking: City centre within 15–20 minutes.

• Taxis: Available outside terminal (~€8 to city centre, ~€12 to Santa Bárbara Castle lift).

• Public Bus/Tram: Alicante has a good network. Single tickets ~€1.45; trams connect along the Costa Blanca.

Places to Eat

• Dársena (restaurantedarsena.com) – Renowned for traditional Alicante-style rice dishes, overlooking the marina.

• El Portal Taberna & Wines (elportaltabernaywines.com) – Stylish tapas bar with creative small plates.

• Cervecería Sento Rambla – A bustling spot for innovative tapas at great value.

Best Beaches

• Playa del Postiguet (1 km) – City beach at the foot of Santa Bárbara Castle, within walking distance of the port. Offers sunbeds, showers, lifeguards, and accessible boardwalks.

• San Juan Beach (7 km) – A long stretch of golden sand, easily reached by tram (Line 3, ~20 minutes). Wide promenade and plenty of facilities.

• Albufereta Beach (4 km) – Quieter alternative, reachable by tram or taxi (~€10).

Shopping

• Avenida Maisonnave – Alicante’s main shopping street with El Corte Inglés and international brands.

• Central Market – A lively indoor market with stalls of seafood, cured meats, and local produce.

• Old Town Boutiques – Independent shops selling ceramics, leather, and artisan goods.

Day 8: Palma, Majorca (Disembarkation)

Palma Cathedral

Arrive: ~06:00  .

What to Do:

• Enjoy a final stroll through Palma as the ship docks—heading home or considering a few extra days in Majorca (e.g., Santa Ponsa, Alcúdia) is a great option  .

Accessibility and Practical Notes

• Marella Cruises offers an Assisted Travel Team for accessibility assistance—contactable for queries regarding access on the ship or shore  .

• Excursions can often be pre-booked or arranged onboard; booking ahead may offer better pricing.

  For FAQs see my related Excursions Guide

• Most quotes and promotions include drinks, meals, entertainment, and tips, but confirm specifics with your booking provider